Mentone Pre School Association

The Mentone Pre School Association is an independent nonprofit organization based in Mentone, Victoria, Australia, dedicated to providing early childhood education to community children aged three to five years. Established in 1958, the Association operates Mentone Pre School, a community-run kindergarten that emphasizes play-based, open-ended learning programs for pre-prep children in the bayside Melbourne region[5][1].

Organizational Structure and Community Involvement

The Association is an incorporated body owned collectively by its parent members, who elect a committee responsible for governing and organizing the preschool services annually. This community-based model fosters parental participation in shaping educational curricula and activities, promoting a collaborative environment involving families and carers in the preschool community[1][2].

Educational Programs and Philosophy

Mentone Pre School offers full-day sessions from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm for both three-year-old and four-year-old children, delivering 15 hours per week of government-funded kindergarten education. Their curriculum centers around a philosophy that recognizes each child as capable, unique, and innately curious about the world. Programs include "Bush Kinder," an outdoor nature-based initiative incorporated into the four-year-old program that supports children's health, wellbeing, and developmental benefits through exploration in natural environments[1][3][4].

Facilities and Environment

Situated in the heart of Mentone with convenient access to public transport, Mentone Pre School features extensive indoor and outdoor play spaces. The outdoor environment includes a large garden playground with native plants, a sandpit, various play equipment, and a billabong equipped with a water pump and mud kitchen. These facilities are designed to provide a safe, inclusive space that encourages active participation and fosters children’s voices and ideas in their learning journey[1].

Values and Policies

The Association strongly acknowledges the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, committing to equity, diversity, and inclusion in its community. It maintains zero tolerance for child abuse, harm, racism, and gender inequality, supported through strict adherence to child safety policies, the Reportable Conduct Scheme, professional learning, and reflective practices. The organization strives to act in the best interest of every child in its care, ensuring a nurturing, respectful, and protective educational environment[1].

Community Partnerships and Support

Mentone Pre School Association benefits from partnerships with local organizations such as Bendigo Bank and Hodges Mentone, whose support includes donations to upgrade play equipment and community promotion efforts. These collaborations enhance the resources and opportunities available to children and families within the preschool community[2].

Summary

As a longstanding community-owned and operated nonprofit, the Mentone Pre School Association offers a play-based, inclusive early childhood education program focused on fostering development through supportive, safe, and nature-rich environments in Mentone, Victoria. It exemplifies community engagement and shared governance with a commitment to child rights and wellbeing.

[1] https://mentonepreschool.com.au [2] https://mentonepreschool.com.au/community/ [3] https://www.acecqa.gov.au/resources/national-registers/services/mentone-preschool [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/e3a9a29b-39af-e811-a960-000d3ad24282 [5] https://www.mycommunitylife.com.au/Community/Mentone-Pre-School